Supporting musculoskeletal health in the workplace
Your step-by-step guide to reducing musculoskeletal risks and promoting long-term health at work.
Musculoskeletal health: Why early action matters
Musculoskeletal (MSK) issues are one of the most common causes of work-related ill health, affecting employees across all roles and industries.
In 2023/24, around one third of work-related ill health in Great Britain was attributed to musculoskeletal issues, with millions of working days lost each year¹. The most commonly affected areas are²:
- Back (43% of cases)
- Upper limbs or neck (37%)
- Lower limbs (20%)
MSK conditions can impact anyone, but certain groups, such as older workers, women, and those in physically demanding or sedentary roles, may be at higher risk.
Employer toolkit: Supporting musculoskeletal health in the workplace
Our toolkit is designed to help employers and line managers:
- Understand the key risk factors for MSK conditions
- Spot early warning signs among employees
- Take practical steps to support MSK health and prevent long-term issues